Social Science

New research finds that vaccine skeptics possess an unusual mix of ethical beliefs that defy the traditional left-right divide.

If nothing else, there's comfort in knowing most people will fall short of their goals.

Panicked about some last-minute Christmas shopping? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

Want a content citizenry? Try allocating tax dollars to roads, parks, and libraries.

New research finds that majority-group members are wary of newcomers who hold dual identities.

New research finds that ethnocentrism and political oppression are more prevalent in the southern part of the Northern Hemisphere, and vice-versa.

A small study from the Netherlands finds that a few grams of hallucinogenic truffles can stimulate the imagination.

They're linked to high blood pressure, insomnia, and depression.

How can universities convince them to share that information?

Nevertheless, scientists see some progress on the problem of reproducibility.

Americans' beliefs about politics are as inaccurate and bizarre as ever. Is there a way to fix that?

We spoke with social-science ethicists about how well Facebook's initiative appears to protect users' privacy. They're skeptical, but still eager to see Facebook data studied.

New research finds kids' ability to delay gratification is influenced by the norms of their peer group.

Social science groups say a citizenship question could lead to population data flaws that compromise research for a decade.

Social science advocates and Democratic lawmakers suggest the White House was behind the NSF's proposed budget slashes.

It's true that much of the scholarship that professors in the humanities produce is micro-focused and barely relevant to larger social concerns. But those academics would also be best served by ignoring that critique.

New research offers a disturbing case study in shifting social norms.

Attacks like the one in New York City can alter people's psychology and their politics.

A round-up of some of our best stories highlighting the need for reform in mental-heath policy.

The acclaimed writer talks with Pacific Standard about the new scientific consensus around psychosis treatments—and the scholar-advocate he profiled for his new story in our October issue.

Updates to past Pacific Standard stories.

Drawing on experience, one pair of young social scientists offer a way to cut down on mistakes in their field.

The latest scientists to win the "genius grants" are learning about the brain, turning sewage into useful stuff, and everything in between.

Polite entrenchment, at least in one recent case.